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Effect of Historic Agricultural Land Use on Restoration Potential
Research Advisor: Eric Jorgensen, Ph.D.(580)436-8545 email Jorgensen.Eric@epa.gov
Land use can have long-term chronic effects on ecosystem function and processes. Throughout much of the eastern United States, historic agricultural practices (particularly row-cropping) was conducted in river valleys from Columbian times through the early twentieth century. Changing socio-economic conditions resulted in virtual abandonment of intensive row-cropping in these areas throughout the 1900’s. Among agricultural practices, row-cropping is highly likely to leave sites disturbed, effecting run-off, sediment transport, and nutrient use near streams. These are special concerns for restorationists. Investigating and quantifying these special concerns and developing management techniques for addressing them will help practitioners to better prioritize and implement restoration plans.